How to Position Fire Extinguishers

Dual fire extinguishers are mounted on a garden wall.

Fire extinguishers are a fire suppression tool used to tackle a fire in its early stages. When properly used, they can save lives and property damage. Positioning fire extinguishers where they are accessible immediately should a fire erupt is of the utmost importance. You should clearly mark the location of every fire extinguisher in a home or building for easy identification and accessibility.

Instructions

1. 

   Fire extinguisher signs should be clearly visible.

   Position fire extinguishers in locations where fires are likely to erupt. Never place fire suppression devices more than 75 feet from a potential fire. Do not store fire extinguishers in a cupboard or closet. Valuable time is lost if the extinguisher is not readily available. If an extinguisher is in a hard-to-spot location, mark it with a clearly visible sign.

2. 

   Locate a fire extinguisher near the kitchen range.

   Mount a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. The U.S. Fire Administration states that the majority of home fires start in the kitchen. Do not locate the extinguisher near the range or oven. In the event of a stove top fire the flames may make it impossible to reach the extinguisher. Mount the extinguisher next to the entrance to the kitchen cooking area.

3. 

   Position extinguishers where they are readily accesible.

   Install a fire extinguisher in the garage. Paints, cleaning supplies and solvents produce vapors that are highly combustible. Many home fires begin in the garage, so keep a filled fire extinguisher handy, especially when working with power tools, welding or cutting torches or any other source of ignition. Mount the fire extinguisher at an easy-to-reach level, just inside the garage door.

References

• Black White Fire Safety: Fire Extinguishers
• International Council of Toy Industries: Fire Extinguishers
• Encinitas Fire Prevention: Fire Extinguisher Requirements
• Fire Extinguisher 101: Location